Ever have one of those summer days where store-bought ice cream just doesn’t cut it? You crave something homemade, maybe with fresh berries or a swirl of caramel, but the idea of churning by hand feels like a chore. That’s where a ninja ice cream maker can totally change the game. It promises to turn simple ingredients into frozen treats in minutes, right on your countertop.
But does it really deliver that dreamy, creamy texture we all love? I was pretty skeptical myself, so I decided to put it through its paces. We’re gonna look at whether this machine is a kitchen hero or just another gadget that’ll collect dust. Let’s see if it can handle your wildest flavor ideas.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Ninja Ice Cream Maker
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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Ninja CREAMi Deluxe Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker…
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9.6 |
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Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker, for Gelato, Mix-ins,…
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9.4 |
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Ninja CREAMi | Ice Cream Maker Bundle | Includes…
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9.2 |
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Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Ice Cream and Soft…
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9.0 |
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Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Double Insulated…
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8.8 |
Read Review |
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Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Ice Cream, Sorbet…
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8.7 |
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Ninja CREAMi, Ice Cream Maker, Ice Cream, Gelato, Sorbet,Milkshakes,…
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8.5 |
Read Review |
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Ninja CREAMi 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker, Includes (5) Pints,…
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8.3 |
Read Review |
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Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Stainless Steel Frozen…
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8.1 |
Read Review |
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GreenPan Frost Ice Cream Maker & Slushie Machine, Soft…
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7.9 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Ninja Ice Cream Maker
Ninja CREAMi Deluxe Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker for Ice Cream, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Frozen Yogurt, & More, 11-in-1, XL Capacity, Silver, Includes (2) Family-Sized 24 oz. Tubs, NC501
The Ninja CREAMi Deluxe Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker (NC501) is designed for anyone who wants complete control over their frozen desserts at home. This 11-in-1 appliance goes beyond basic ice cream, offering dedicated programs for sorbet, milkshakes, frozen yogurt, and more, thanks to five added functions compared to earlier models.
Its core promise is customization, allowing you to tailor ingredients for dietary preferences, whether you’re aiming for low-sugar, high-protein, dairy-free, or vegan treats. You decide exactly what goes in, from the base to your favorite mix-ins like fruit, nuts, or candy. A standout feature is the XL capacity. It comes with two family-sized 24 oz. tubs, which hold 50% more than the original CREAMi pints, making it easier to create enough for sharing.
The dual processing function is particularly clever; it lets you prepare two different mix-in flavors in the same tub. You can add candy to the top section, process and serve that first, then later add cookies to the bottom portion for a second, distinct flavor—all from one frozen base. This maximizes variety and convenience. Operation is straightforward. You prepare your liquid base, freeze it solid in the provided tub overnight, then place it into the machine.
With the press of a button, the Advanced Creamify Technology takes over. The dual-drive motors apply pressure and spin the specialized paddle, shaving and blending the frozen block into a creamy consistency. If the texture isn’t quite perfect after the first cycle, the Re-Spin function lets you process it again for a softer, creamier result. This gives you direct control over the final feel of your dessert. The unit includes the motor base, the deluxe Creamerizer paddle, two 24 oz.
Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker, for Gelato, Mix-ins, Milkshakes, Sorbet, Smoothie Bowls & More, 7 One-Touch Programs, with (2) Pint Containers & Lids, Compact Size, Perfect for Kids, Silver
The Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker is a compact, versatile kitchen appliance designed to give you complete creative freedom over your frozen desserts. It’s built around a simple premise: you control the ingredients, and it handles the transformation from a frozen block to a creamy treat. With its 7 one-touch programs, you’re not limited to just ice cream.
The dedicated settings for Gelato, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Smoothie Bowls, Lite Ice Cream, and a specific Mix-in program ensure that each type of frozen creation gets the precise processing it needs for the right texture. What really sets the CREAMi apart is it’s customization potential. The process is straightforward. You prepare your base—which can be anything from classic cream and sugar to coconut milk, fruit puree, or even a keto-friendly alternative—pour it into one of the included 16-oz.
pints, and freeze it solid overnight. The next day, you place the pint into the outer bowl, select your program, and let the machine work. The powerful 800-watt motor and proprietary Creamify Technology use a specialized paddle to shave and creamify that uniform frozen block into an incredibly smooth consistency. If you prefer a softer serve texture right away, the handy Re-spin function is there to give your pint an extra blending cycle. The fun truly begins with the Mix-in feature.
After the initial processing, you can add a compartment of your favorite chopped candies, nuts, cookies, or fresh fruit. A quick additional mix-in cycle folds them throughout your treat, creating custom chunks and flavor bursts in every spoonful. This allows for endless personalization, weather you’re making a chocolate ice cream with peanut butter cups or a mango sorbet with fresh basil. Practicality is a key focus.
Ninja CREAMi | Ice Cream Maker Bundle | Includes (4)16 oz. Tubs for Gelato, Mix-ins, Milkshakes, Sorbet, Smoothie Bowls & More| 7 One-Touch Programs| Compact Size| Perfect for Kids | Silver
The Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker Bundle is a compact kitchen appliance designed to give you complete control over your frozen desserts. At its core, the NC301 model uses a specialized Creamify technology and an 800W motor to shave through a uniformly frozen pint, turning a solid block into a perfectly textured treat. It comes with seven one-touch programs, making it straightforward to create a wide variety of desserts from the same machine.
You can choose the specific setting for classic ice cream, gelato, sorbet, milkshakes, or even smoothie bowls, ensuring each type gets the right processing for ideal consistency. This particular bundle is especially useful because it includes four total 16-ounce pint containers with lids. The machine itself comes with two, and you get two additional reusable pints in the box. This means you can prepare and freeze multiple flavors in advance, storing them until your ready to process them.
Having extra pints on hand streamlines the process, allowing you to enjoy one flavor while another is freezing solid in your freezer, which is a necessary step for the Creamify technology to work correctly. It’s worth noting that these pint containers are designed specifically for the CREAMi system and are compatible with the NC299, NC300, and this NC301 series.
The compact size of the Ninja CREAMi makes it easy to store on your countertop or in a cabinet, and its simple operation is perfect for involving kids in the kitchen. They can help choose mix-ins or select the program, watching the transformation from frozen base to creamy dessert in minutes. The versatility here is a major advantage; you arent limited to rich, indulgent ice creams.
Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Ice Cream and Soft Serve Maker, Sorbet, Milkshake, Frozen Yogurt, Low Calories Program & More, 13-in-1, Soft Serve Handle & (2) CREAMi 2-in-1 16oz Pints, NC701
The Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Ice Cream and Soft Serve Maker, model NC701, is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to give you complete control over your frozen desserts. It moves beyond basic ice cream makers by offering two distinct serving styles: classic scooped pints and swirled soft serve, all from the same machine.
This 13-in-1 functionality means it’s essentially a compact frozen treat shop on your counter, capable of producing everything from dense, scoopable ice cream to light sorbet, thick milkshakes, and creamy frozen yogurt. A key feature is the six dedicated soft serve programs. With the included handle and dispensing lid, you can create rich Frozen Custard, airy Fruit Whip, or swirled frozen yogurt directly into a bowl or onto a cone.
The automatic handle has multiple speed settings, making it easy for anyone in the family to create the perfect swirl, turning dessert into a fun activity. For those mindful of their diet, the machine offers significant customization. The unique 2-in-1 CREAMiFit program is engineered specifically for lower-calorie, high-protein bases, using a specialized spinning process to achieve a creamy texture without compromise.
You control every ingredient, allowing for dairy-free, vegan, low-sugar, or nut-free creations tailored to your dietary needs and preferences. The customization extends to flavors and textures with the mix-in feature. After the initial processing cycle, you can add chunks of chocolate, fruit pieces, nuts, or candy into the pint. A quick re-spin incorporates these mix-ins evenly throughout your dessert, ensuring every bite is packed with your favorite flavors.
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Double Insulated Machine, Sorbet and Frozen Yogurt Maker, Ready in 20 Minutes, ICE-21P1, White
The Cuisinart ICE-21P1 Ice Cream Maker is a straightfoward appliance designed to bring the fun and control of homemade frozen desserts into your kitchen. Its core promise is simplicity and speed, allowing you to create a 1.5 quart batch of ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt in about 20 minutes from start to finish. This capacity is ideal for a family or a small gathering, giving you enough to share without being overwhelming.
The entire process centers around its unique double-insulated freezer bowl, which is the key to its operation. You simply store this bowl in your freezer overnight, and when your ready to make ice cream, its pre-chilled walls do all the work—no need for messy ice or rock salt. This feature makes the machine incredibly clean and convenient to use. Getting started is intuitive.
The machine features an easy-lock lid that’s transparent, so you can watch the magic happen without interrupting the cycle. A large spout on the lid means you can pour in your pre-mixed ingredients without splashing or removing the cover, keeping everything tidy. The mixing paddle inside, often called the dasher, is engineered for efficiency. It constantly turns and scrapes the sides of the freezing bowl, incorporating air and preventing icy crystals from forming.
This action is what leads to that creamy, smooth texture you expect from quality ice cream, and it achieves this in a remarkably short timeframe. Whether your following a classic custard recipe or a simple fruit sorbet, the machine handles it reliably. Beyond just ice cream, this Cuisinart model is versatile. The same process that makes rich ice cream is perfect for tangy frozen yogurt or bright, fruit-forward sorbets.
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Ice Cream, Sorbet and Frozen Yogurt Machine, Fully Automatic Double-Insulated Freezer Bowl Makes Frozen Desserts in Under 30 Minutes, ICE30BCP1, Silver
The Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine ICE30BCP1 is a fully automatic appliance designed to bring the craft of homemade frozen desserts into your kitchen with remarkable ease. Its core is the double-insulated freezer bowl, a key component that eliminates the need for ice or rock salt. This bowl, which holds a full 2 quarts, is what allows you to create a wide variety of treats—from classic vanilla ice cream and tangy sorbet to healthier frozen yogurt and even slushy frozen drinks.
You simply store the bowl in your freezer until it’s thoroughly chilled, then assemble the unit and let the machine handle the churning. It’s a straightforward process that yields fresh, customizable results in under 30 minutes. Functionality is where this model truly shines. It’s built with a reliable, heavy-duty motor that operates quietly and efficiently, doing the hard work of freezing and aerating your mixture so you don’t have to.
The brushed stainless steel housing isn’t just for looks; it’s durable and easy to wipe clean. One of the most appreciated features is the large ingredient spout on the lid. This lets you add your favorite mix-ins—like chocolate chips, fruit pieces, or cookie dough—at the perfect moment during the churning cycle, ensuring they are evenly distributed without stopping the machine.
For convenience, the unit also includes a retractable cord storage to help keep your countertop neat and tidy when the maker is not in use. When you unbox the Cuisinart ICE30BCP1, you’ll find everything needed to get started right away. The package includes the main motor unit, the essential double-insulated freezer bowl, a dasher (paddle) that effectively scrapes the sides of the bowl as it turns, and a clear lid with that handy spout.
Ninja CREAMi, Ice Cream Maker, Ice Cream, Gelato, Sorbet,Milkshakes, Mix-ins, Smoothie Bowls & More, 7-in-1, Ice Cream Pints, Pint lid, Healthy Ice Cream, Compact, Perfect for Kids, Black, NC299AMZ
The Ninja CREAMi NC299AMZ is a compact kitchen appliance designed to put you in charge of your frozen desserts. It’s a 7-in-1 machine that processes single-serving pints, allowing you to make ice cream, gelato, sorbet, milkshakes, smoothie bowls, and more right on your counter. The core idea is customization and control, moving beyond the store freezer aisle to create exactly what you want. At its heart is the Creamify Technology.
Unlike old-fashioned ice cream makers that require pre-freezing bowls and constant churning, the CREAMi uses a powerful Creamerizer Paddle and dual-drive motors. It finely shaves through a completely frozen pint in minutes, breaking down ice crystals into a remarkably creamy texture. You simply prepare your base mixture, freeze it solid in the included 16-oz pint container for 24 hours, then place it in the outer bowl and select a program.
The seven one-touch programs—Ice Cream, Gelato, Sorbet, Milkshake, Smoothie Bowl, Lite Ice Cream, and Mix-in—are engineered to apply the right combination of speed and pressure for each type of treat. If your creation is a bit too firm after processing, the handy Re-spin function gives it another quick blend for a softer, creamier consistency. Where this machine truly shines is in the freedom it offers. You have total control over your ingredients.
Whether your aiming for a decadent, rich gelato, a low-sugar option, a keto-friendly treat, or a completely dairy-free and vegan sorbet, you decide what goes in. This makes it perfect for dietary preferences and for creating healthier alternatives for the whole family. The Mix-in feature is a standout, letting you add chunks of your favorite chocolate, fruit, nuts, or candy during a final processing cycle for custom flavors and textures in every bite. Ease of use is a major focus.
Ninja CREAMi 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker, Includes (5) Pints, for Ice Cream, Gelato, Sorbet ,Milkshakes, Mix-ins, Smoothie Bowls & More
The Ninja CREAMi 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker is a countertop appliance designed to put you in complete control of your frozen desserts. It goes far beyond basic ice cream, offering seven one-touch programs specifically engineered for Ice Cream, Gelato, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Smoothie Bowls, Lite Ice Cream, and a dedicated Mix-in function. This versatility means you can create a wide range of textures and styles, from a dense, rich gelato to a light and fruity sorbet, all with the press of a button.
What truly sets the CREAMi apart is the level of customization it offers. You decide exactly what goes into your pint. Whether you’re following a keto, dairy-free, vegan, or low-sugar lifestyle, you can tailor your base ingredients to fit your dietary needs and preferences. The process is straightforward: you prepare your mixture, freeze it in the included pint container for 24 hours, then process it in the machine.
The powerful 800-watt motor uses a combination of speed, pressure, and time to completely shave through the frozen block, resulting in an incredibly smooth treat. It’s easy to use, making it a fun activity the whole family can enjoy together. After processing, the fun continues with the Mix-in feature.
This program lets you personalize your creation by incorporating your favorite ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, cookie pieces, or fresh fruit directly into the freshly churned dessert, creating custom flavors and exciting textures. The kit comes with five genuine Ninja CREAMi pints and four extra lids. This is practical for storing multiple flavors at once and allows everyone to make and label their own custom creations.
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Stainless Steel Frozen Yogurt, Gelato, Sorbet, Ready in 20 Minutes, LCD Screen and Timer, ICE-70P1
The Cuisinart ICE-70P1 Ice Cream Maker is a 2-quart countertop appliance designed to bring the craft of frozen desserts into your home kitchen. Its core promise is straightforward: to let you create real, customizable ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt, or sorbet from scratch, with a process that’s surprisingly simple and results that are genuinely fresh.
If you’ve ever wanted to control exactly what goes into your dessert—from the quality of the cream to the intensity of the fruit puree—this machine provides the tool to do it. Functionality is at the heart of its design. The unit features a large, clear LCD screen and a digital countdown timer, which are central to its ease of use. You simply prepare your chilled mixture, pour it in, and select a setting.
The timer counts down from 60 minutes, but many standard recipes will be ready in about 20 to 30 minutes, thanks to its efficient freezing bowl system. The machine also includes an auto shutoff, so it stops churning once the consistency is perfect, which is a great safeguard if you get distracted. This combination of features means you’re not tied to the machine; you can set it and attend to other things while it works.
With a 2-quart capacity, it produces enough for a family gathering or to stock your freezer for the week. The included lid has a clever integrated spout and a small measuring cup that snaps right in. This allows you to add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit during the final stages of churning without having to remove the lid entirely, minimizing mess and helping to maintain the cold temperature inside the bowl.
GreenPan Frost Ice Cream Maker & Slushie Machine, Soft Serve, Sorbet, Margaritas, Milkshakes, Frozen Yogurt, No Pre-Freezing, Ready in 15 Mins, 6 Modes, 7 Textures, Self-Cleaning, Family Size, Blue
The GreenPan Frost Ice Cream Maker & Slushie Machine is designed to bring the fun and variety of a frozen treat shop directly to your kitchen counter. Its core innovation is the built-in compressor, which eliminates the need for pre-freezing a bowl or using ice and salt. This means you can decide to make ice cream or a slushie on a whim and have it ready to enjoy in about 15 minutes, a genuine game-changer for spontaneous dessert moments. This appliance’s versatility is its standout feature.
It functions as a 15-in-1 creator, handling everything from classic soft-serve and sorbet to frozé, milkshakes, and frozen cocktails. Whether your looking for a dairy-free vegan ice cream, a protein-packed shake, or a refreshing mocktail, the Frost adapts. You can easily tailor recipes to be healthier by using ingredients like Greek yogurt or almond milk, making it simpler to enjoy treats that fit your lifestyle.
The generous 2-quart family-size capacity ensures there’s plenty to share, making it perfect for gatherings or just treating the kids. Control over your creations is precise thanks to 6 dedicated modes and 7 texture settings. You simply choose the mode—like Slushie, Soft Ice Cream, or Sorbet—and then fine-tune the consistency from softly creamy to firm and thick. The included recipe booklet provides suggested settings for each recipe to help you achieve the perfect result everytime.
The clear-view bowl lets you watch the chilling process, so you always know when your treat is at its peak. Serving and cleanup are thoughtfully simplified. A fountain-style handle allows for easy dispensing, and with the included star tip, you can create those perfect, professional-looking swirls. Afterward, the self-cleaning mode takes the hassle out of maintenance.
Ninja Ice Cream Maker Buying Guide
These machines are more than just ice cream makers. A ninja ice cream maker is a versatile kitchen gadget that freezes and mixes ingredients into a soft-serve consistency right in your countertop. They’re known for being fast and not needing a pre-frozen bowl. You get a treat in minutes, not hours.
Capacity and Size
Think about how much you’ll make at once. Smaller pint-sized models are perfect for one or two people. If you have a family or like to serve guests, a larger quart capacity is better. Also, check teh machine’s footprint on your countertop—some can be surprisingly bulky.
Ease of Cleaning
Nobody wants a difficult cleanup after a sweet treat. Look for a model with removable parts that are dishwasher safe. The paddle and lid should be simple to take apart and rinse. Sticky residue is a real pain point, so easy-cup designs are a huge plus.
Multi-Function Use
Many of these devices do more than ice cream. They can often make sorbet, frozen yogurt, milkshakes, and even “nice” cream from bananas. This versatility adds a lot of value. If you enjoy experimenting, a machine with multiple preset programs gives you more options to play with.
Noise Level
These appliances have powerful motors to freeze and mix simultaneously. They can get pretty loud during their short run time. If you have a sleeping baby or value a quiet kitchen, reading reviews about the specific noise level is a smart move. It’s often louder than you’d expect.
Texture Control
Some people prefer a softer serve, others like it firmer. Higher-end models might offer settings to control the consistency. If you have a strong preference, look for this feature. Otherwise, most machines produce a consistent, creamy result straight from the machine—though you can freeze it longer for a harder scoop.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ninja Ice Cream Maker
What can I make with a Ninja ice cream maker?
You can make much more than just ice cream. It handles sorbet, frozen yogurt, and gelato too. You can even make lower-sugar or dairy-free treats. It’s great for trying new flavors at home.
How does it work without needing ice or salt?
It uses a built-in compressor to freeze your mixture. You just pour your ingredients into teh bowl. The machine cools it and churns it all at once. There’s no pre-freezing a bowl for hours, which is super convienent.
Is it loud when it’s running?
It makes some noise, like a kitchen blender. It’s not silent, but it’s not overly loud either. You can easily have a conversation nearby. The motor sound is steady while it churns.
How long does it take to make ice cream?
It usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Thicker, creamier recipes take a bit longer. The machine will let you know when it’s done. Then you can serve it right away or freeze it to harden more.
Can I make multiple batches in a row?
Yes, you can. The compressor system lets you make batch after batch. There’s no waiting for a bowl to re-freeze. Just wash the inner container and start a new recipe.
How do I clean the machine?
Cleaning is pretty simple. The main bowl and paddle are removable and dishwasher safe. You just wipe down the main unit with a damp cloth. Always make sure everything is dry before you store it away.
Where should I store it?
It’s a countertop appliance, so it needs some space. It’s not tiny, but many people leave it out on the counter. If you have limited space, you can store it in a cupboard. Just ensure it’s completely clean and dry first.
Do the recipes require special ingredients?
Not really. Most recipes use common items like cream, milk, sugar, and fruit. The recipe book that comes with it gives you great ideas to start with. You can use regular grocery store ingredients.
The Short Answer
So, is an ice cream maker right for your kitchen? It really comes down to how much you enjoy homemade treats. If you like knowing exactly what’s in your food and trying fun flavors, it’s a great tool. It’s simpler than you might think, and teh results are really satisfying. You can make a batch to share with family or friends on a warm day.
For a straightforward machine that works well, a ninja ice cream maker is a solid choice. It handles the hard work of freezing and mixing for you. You just add your ingredients and let it do it’s thing. In under an hour, you’ll have fresh, creamy ice cream ready to enjoy. It’s a fun way to make a classic dessert just the way you like it.